After reading Dr. Niece's book, The Band Plays On, I knew this one would be a treasure, and I was correct. In both books, I was drawn in to the welcoming and cozy community of DeGraff, Ohio. Growing up all over the United States, I cannot relate with these stories of growing up in one small town, but I can appreciate the simple joy that comes from having a community that feels like home. Dr. Niece not only brings DeGraff to life, but has given me the desire to visit the small town in Ohio and experience the community for myself.

Latest videos

North Korea Says Trump's Latest Threat Is a 'Declaration of War'TMTime

Minivan full of heroin, cocaine, guns, police sayWGAL

Disneyland Just Made Their Scariest Ride Even More Terrifying ( T+L Video)TaLTIME

Man, woman shot in HarrisburgWGAL

Witness shares video of 7.1 earthquake in Mexicosfgate

Cape residents prepare for JoseWCVB

South Korea Detects Radioactive Gas After North Korean Bomb TestBuzz60

Florida Residents Prepare For Worst With IrmaAP

US outlines plans to dismantle DACA immigration schemeEuronews_News

Protests Outside White House After DACA EdictAP

White House Says President Trump 'Wrestled' With Decision to End DACATMTime

Zika Virus Identified As Potential Treatment For Brain CancerGeoBeats

Remains of Tropical Storm Harvey Devastates Town of SanfordStoryful

The best part of the story is Bernie Jones, the boy who struggled with cerebral palsy. Bernie had a giant smile and a matching heart, gifts he freely shared with anyone willing to accept them. Dr. Niece put words on each page that allowed me to feel Bernie's genuine love of life and new experiences. His unconditional love of others was apparent, and those who were lucky enough to know him were blessed beyond measure. What is also impressive is how Dr. Niece recognized his special gift of friendship with Bernie at his young age.

I highly recommend Side-Yard Superhero: Life Lessons from an Unlikely Teacher by Rick D. Niece, Ph.D., to anyone looking for a "feel-good" story about a young boy and his life experiences growing up in a small town. I have gained a new appreciation for the small things in my own life after reading this inspiring story. My hope is to better recognize the gifts in my life and treasure the experiences like Bernie and Dr. Niece did growing up. Thank you for sharing your story, Dr. Niece!